Base or Mobile Radio?

[KK4SYW]

I am currently studying to take my ham radio exam, but I was wondering how using a mobile radio as a base works out. I am planning on buying a 2 meter radio once I pass the test, but I don't know whether to buy a base radio or a mobile and use it as a base. I know if I use a mobile I will also need a power supply. Also, please recommend good base and mobile 2 meter radios. Thanks!

 

[nd5y]

Check the product reviews at eHam.net Reviews - Transceivers: VHF/UHF+ Amateur Base/Mobile (non hand-held)

 

[n5ims]

While there are a few VHF and/or UHF base radios out there the vast majority of folks use a mobile as their base. I like Kenwood radios, but most of the major brands are also quite good. If you can, visit a nearby hamfest (basically a ham radio convention) where you'll probably have several set up so you can see how they work prior to purchase (often they have sale prices during the hamfest as well). Don't forget to check out dual band VHF/UHF radios as well. They'll allow you to cover both the 2 meter and 440 bands so you'll be able to communicate regardless of which band is more popular in your area.

For a first radio, don't overlook a used radio. You'll save money and if you examine it well prior to purchase will generally get a good radio. The advantage here is you can often sell it for nearly what you pay for it (unlike a new radio) so if you descide to upgrade (or just don't like how it works) you're not out much at all. Just make sure it covers the desired band(s), supports the necessary PL tones (very old ones may not, but most that are just somewhat older should), and appear to be undamaged (hopefully they'll also be hooked up so you can verify they operate well also).

The key is to get a good regulated 12v power supply (I like the Astron series - Astron Corporation). Get one that will handle at least the max amps your radio will pull (it's best to get one that's double the amps since many are rated for "peak" power, not continuous power). My Astron 20 amp supply is used to power 4 radios (I never transmit on more than 1 at a time, of course) with the radio with the largest rated draw being 12 amps handles my power needs just fine.

You should get a larger power supply over a smaller one (amps, not physical size!) with the more basic ones generally doing the job just as well as the more fancy ones. Those with variable voltages are fine, but generally this isn't necessary but adds quite a bit to the price. Meters are good, but are generally not looked at once you set things up (and also add to the price). Often the power supply is stuck under a desk (or other out-of-the-way place) since once it's hooked up you never touch it (except possibly the power switch!). Once it's placed there, those expensive meters aren't visible anyway!

 

[W2NJS]

N5IMS is absolutely correct. A base radio and a mobile radio are the same exact unit, but one runs on an AC power supply and the other runs on 12VDC from the vehicle.

You can do a lot of evaluating and shopping online with the various ham outlets, such as Universal, HRO, AES, and others. This will save you a lot of time.

 

[Token]

If you are talking new hardware the answer is simple, there basically are no 2 meter only base radios made today. If you want a 2 meter only base you will have to use a mobile and a power supply.

If you want specifically a base radio that does 2 meters, and don't mind it having the other 4 to 10 bands, there are a very few on the market, but they tend to be at the upper end of the price ranges. Oh, and most of them run on 12 VDC just like a mobile would, so you still need a power supply for it.

Example of current production "base" radios that include 2 meters:
Kenwood TS-2000, $1500
Icom IC9100, $3500
Flex 5000A with 2M/70cm, $4900

While a current production mobile plus a power supply can be had brand new for under $200, depending on what you want.

If you talk about used hardware the field is larger, naturally. But "base" 2 meter radios have always been in a minority compared to "mobile" radios.

Unless you want the other features of the base radios, multiple bands, generally high end features, etc, just get a mobile with features you like and a power supply and be done with it.

T!

(edit) Whoops, while I was writing this others were responding with similar stuff...DOH!

 

[nd5y]

Get a good mobile speaker.
Mount the speaker mounting bracket to the radio's mobile mounting bracket.
Get a desk mic or mount a mic hanger on the speaker or bracket.
Put adhesive rubber feet on the bottom of the radio.
Now you have a base.

 

[KK4SYW]

Thanks

Thanks for all of the posts. I now think I will buy a VHF/UHF mobile radio. I plan to take my exam in August. Thanks again for all of the help.

 

[ropin4gold]

I run a Kenwood TM-271 in the house on an astron, and really like it for a single band radio. I use a Yaesu FT-7800 in the truck for dual band. Are you currently monitoring any repeaters in the area? You should be able to hear the 146.910 Short Mtn repeater, also there is a good one up on Monteagle Mtn but I am not sure of the freq. There are lots of clubs in the area and people to help you study, classes, etc. I got started with the Maury Amateur Radio Club up in Columbia Welcome to the M.A.R.C. Homepage lots of good people up there. Watch this site and qth.com and get you a deal on a used radio. I also have good luck at gigaparts when they close things out.

 

[KK4SYW]

I run a Kenwood TM-271 in the house on an astron, and really like it for a single band radio. I use a Yaesu FT-7800 in the truck for dual band. Are you currently monitoring any repeaters in the area? You should be able to hear the 146.910 Short Mtn repeater, also there is a good one up on Monteagle Mtn but I am not sure of the freq. There are lots of clubs in the area and people to help you study, classes, etc. I got started with the Maury Amateur Radio Club up in Columbia Welcome to the M.A.R.C. Homepage lots of good people up there. Watch this site and qth.com and get you a deal on a used radio. I also have good luck at gigaparts when they close things out.

Ok thanks for your post. I do monitor local repeaters (Short Mountain, Keith Springs Mountain, and Hillsboro). There is a club (Middle Tennessee Amateur Radio Society) in Coffee County (which is about 25 minutes away). I have talked to a local Ham and he has been a lot of help. I appreciate your post and I am excited about taking the exam and then getting to become involved in ham radio.

 

[John599nj]

Get the dual band mobile with a few power settings like low med and hi. And something that's computer programmable.